Juan Del Mar Restaurante

It was a “meh” night here tonight. The paella was salty to the point of being nearly inedible and the $11 mojito was pure sugar - the tuna salad was fine. The service was fantastic tho as usual but having dined here before with no issues and considering the prices, the customer should expect better.

Might have been the worst meal I've had in the past 6 months. Ordered the beef short ribs (I could bite into the pieces of salt on the meat) and the Mediterranean fish (I had two bites and couldn't eat more, absolutely terrible). Fries were mid, cap ride salad was good. Best part of the meal was the wine I drank (1 glasses of montepulchiano). I've been here before and it was good then, absolutely terrible this time. Removing it from recommendations moving forward.

I would highly recommend making reservations in the air conditioned area they have. The staff were friendly and food was good. My husband got the fried whole fish and he thought it was more of a 3/5 star. I would recommend the seafood pasta and the octopus. They also have the best plantains I’ve had in Cartagena, the whole table agreed on that one. Definitely worth going for the octopus!

Juan Del Mar Restaurante – A Vibrant Culinary Experience in Cartagena Nestled in the heart of Cartagena’s historic center at Plaza San Diego 8-12, Juan Del Mar Restaurante is a standout destination that blends Caribbean flair, fresh seafood, and a lively atmosphere into a memorable dining experience. As one of three establishments under the Juan Del Mar brand (alongside a gourmet pizzeria and a Peruvian mesa), this restaurant focuses on seafood and Caribbean-inspired cuisine, housed in a beautifully restored 19th-century republican house. My visit left me with a mix of impressions—mostly positive—but there’s plenty to unpack for anyone considering a meal here. Ambiance: A Feast for the SensesStepping into Juan Del Mar feels like entering a living piece of Cartagena’s history. The architecture retains its original charm—think exposed brick, high ceilings, and tiled floors—while eclectic decor adds a playful, artistic twist. Metal fish sculptures hang above the courtyard, and marine-themed artwork peppers the space, evoking the nearby Caribbean Sea. The open-air courtyard, where the kitchen buzzes with energy, is the heart of the restaurant,

One of our favourite restaurants in Cartagena - good for bigger groups. Inside is beautiful, sometimes with live music. Also outside area great for being part of the scenery. The food is very good, a bit over priced like most of restaurants in town. Vegetarian options. Even vegan pizza options with almond cheese.

Everything we ordered was delicious, especially for seafood lovers, and the pastas were lovely as well, with good portion sizes. We enjoyed the food so much that we went back the next day! The only negative would be that it can be very crowded and noisy at night sitting outside for dinner, and with street performers and some vendors coming up to the table, it’s not so relaxing. The service was also slower as there were so many customers (I recommend booking a table, we were lucky to get one in the evening walking in). However when we went for lunch the next day, the service and wait for food was so, so quick! The atmosphere was also nice and peaceful. I particularly recommend the octopus carpaccio, I love octopus but in many restaurants it’s not cooked so well, here it was delicious. We did try a pizza and it was good (I enjoy thin and crispy pizza but if you prefer a thick base, it won’t be for you) but the pastas/orzo were better in my opinion. The raw tuna and crab claw appetisers were also particularly good. If we are able to visit Cartegena again, we will stop here for sure :)

Walked by this place and saw a duet playing and just had to drop in for a beer. So chill and fun. My sister in law saw us inside and joined. Ended up eating lunch and enjoying the band. They played Latin classics and my wife and sister in law and most of the bar were singing along and dancing. One gentleman was even doing percussion with spoons! Just a great local experience. Great lasagna and pizza as well. Menu looked great for dinner but never made it back for that! Next time ! Try to sit in the room with the band for the best experience!

We had such an amazing time on our first visit that we couldn't wait to be back. This time we made a reservation in advance, Friday night. We were sure it's going to be phenomenal but something we're missing on our second time around.. It's seam the spirit and joy has left the building and went outside to the street. The servers did their job, but without joy. And the food was good but without soul. Only 4 stars... When it comes to a seafood restaurant with a great environment you can not find a better place than Juan del Mar. You know it's real when all the servers are smiling and dancing with the guests. Happiness is a state of mind here and it reflects in the delicious food they served. A live band is performing local music, Caribbean style and everyone is dancing. A word of advice : this is a very busy restaurant in the center of the old city. Do yourself a favor and reserve a table ahead of time.